Former Sheffield Wednesday man Jack Hunt has a new club.

Cult hero former Sheffield Wednesday right-back Jack Hunt has referenced the club in his opening gambit with his new employers - describing one Owls memory as the ‘best worst’ day of his career.

Having completed a short-term deal with Wigan Athletic towards the end of the last campaign, the 35-year-old defender has signed on with ambitious League Two newbies York City following their dramatic promotion from the National League last time out. Speaking in an unveiling interview with club media and asked about what would constitute a successful season at the LNER Stadium, Hunt was bullish.

“Without sounding arrogant, promotion,” he said. “With that, it needs a lot of extremely hard work and togetherness, but there’s nothing to be fearful of in the Football League, there are going to be ups and downs along the way, but hopefully we can have a really, really successful season and have one eye on going up to League One.”

Hunt played 180 times for Wednesday across two successful spells, his final fortnight in Owls colours delivering iconic scenes as he stroked home the penalty that secured the greatest play-off comeback of all-time in May 2023. With 552 total appearances under his belt, his job at York is in no small part to guide younger players into the cut and thrust of EFL football.

“I think it’s a responsibility as you go on your football journey,” he said. “When I was younger I always really looked up to the older lads. First and foremost I’ve come here to try and get into the team, but also really help on and off the pitch with the club being back in the Football League.”

Invited to discuss some of his career highs, that 2023 promotion was mentioned - as was the 2016 Championship play-off final that ultimately ended in disappointment.

“I’ve had three promotions and they are things you never forget,” he said. “Also at Sheffield Wednesday, we lost the play-off final to go the Premier League and I can probably describe that as the ‘best worst’ day of my life. It made some amazing memories but unfortunately we fell short. You only learn from your mistakes, right? It really helped me on my path and shaped me into the person and player I am today.”